If dancing to pounding beats spun by your favorite electronic DJ is what your workout dreams are made of, then signing up for a 305 Fitness class should be on your to-do list. Launched in 2012 in New York by a club enthusiast and with an investor list that includes international mega-DJ Tiesto himself, the workout method quickly spread across the world. There are now three flagship studios and classes available both online and in-person in nearly every major city.
Meet the Expert
Jenn Hicks, instructor, 305 Fitness, explains that 305 Fitness is more of a movement than just any old fitness class, with a mission to “empower people to move through the world more boldly and joyously.” Classes are nonstop, infusing dance cardio with high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and toning, resulting in a total body workout.
The workout feels like more of a night at a Miami club than a workout class, with a live DJ spinning the tunes and an instructor collaborating throughout. “Not even the instructor knows what the DJ will play next,” reveals Hicks. The class starts with dance cardio, followed by a body part-focused toning session, HIIT workout moves with a grand finale focused on more dancing.
305 Fitness doesn’t fall into one workout genre because it is basically a three-part workout. You will reap major cardio benefits from the dance component while including blasting calories and burning fat. HIIT effectively builds muscle and blasts calories, while toning will help you firm up.
Ultimately, while there are many benefits of a 305 class, major calorie burn might incentivize you the most. Per the 305 website, you can burn up to 500 calories during a 45-minute workout.
Rachelle Maguire, Instructor, 305 Fitness, explains that class starts with a cardio warm-up before breaking into a follow-along choreographed section. She explains that there are "Fiver favorites"—popular dance routines that people love the most incorporated into many classes. However, because every class incorporates a live DJ, "no two classes will ever be the same." The initial dance party is followed by a body part-focused toning section (some classes will incorporate equipment while others will rely only on body weight), then ends with more dancing and a final stretch. No equipment is needed, and each class runs 30 to 45 minutes.
She also notes that while your first class may be intimidating, especially if you are not an experienced dancer, you will catch on quickly. "While you may see new moves taking your first 305 class, they become quickly familiar, and next thing you'll know, you're doing them in your sleep,” she promises.
305 is a high impact and HIIT class, both of which have their own set of safety considerations. However, you can modify the workout. “Talk to the instructor at the beginning of class to flag any limitations, and we'll find the best way for you to move,” suggests Maguire.
305 Fitness is offered in studio settings, outdoors, and also in the comfort of your own home via 305 At Home. “At-Home and In-Studio have the same movements, instructors, and DJs you'll see in the studio, but the song selection differs,” Maguire explains. New subscribers get seven days free. After the trial period, a subscription costs $29 a month. Still, if that is cost-prohibitive for various reasons listed on their website, they offer discounted pricing for $14.50 per month.
However, because peers physically surround you during In-Studio, the sense of community is stronger. As for pricing, it varies by location—anywhere from around $20 to $34 per class. However, they do have package options, making each class more cost-effective.
Zumba, the OG, Latin-inspired dance workout that has been around for several decades, is very similar to 305 in terms of cardiovascular benefits. However, the biggest difference between the two is that Zumba focuses on cardio, while 305 also incorporates toning and HIIT.
You can wear whatever you are comfortable in and able to move around freely to a 305 class. "Class requires comfortable sneakers and an outfit that makes you feel your most confident," suggests Maguire.
305 Fitness is a great workout option that can boost your physical fitness and help with a personal exploration of self-expression, confidence, and health. “Yes, you burn a ton of calories, but you also shed any external expectations and tune into what you already have that makes you beautiful and sexy,” reminds Maguire.
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